Blad met de opdracht aan Karel V, opdracht Possibly 1530 - 1620

This page, etched by Nicolaas Hogenberg, dedicates itself to Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor. Note the winged skulls flanking the central inscription. These 'memento mori' are not mere symbols of death but potent reminders of mortality, urging viewers to reflect on life's fleeting nature and the vanity of earthly power. Such symbols are deeply rooted in human consciousness, recurring across epochs and cultures. Consider the ancient Roman tradition of displaying skulls during triumphs, a custom designed to temper the victor's pride. We can see how the skull motif evolves through time, from a symbol of victory to a contemplation of existence. These images tap into our collective unconscious, stirring primal fears and existential ponderings. The presence of these symbols in art serves as a constant, cyclical reminder of life's impermanence, urging us to confront our mortality and seek meaning beyond the material world.